To better serve veterans in the Tampa Bay region and beyond, the Raymond James National Veteran Inclusion (Valor) Network has added Stetson’s Veterans Law Institute to the portfolio of organizations that help it support those who have served.
A nationwide alliance of nonprofits, Valor offers a variety of services such as financial support and career development to members of all military branches as well as military spouses and first responders. The VLI is the only nonprofit in the network that can provide free legal services to veterans seeking to appeal denial of benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
“Our Valor nonprofits support veterans from all over the country, and a key need for veterans and transitioning military, is navigating the VA system/claims process,” said Mercy Ameyaw Aston, national co-chair of Valor. “Legal support ranks as one of the highest unmet needs by veterans and their families. VA Claims are a difficult area for private practitioners because cases can take years, involve extensive investigation, and the final award is uncertain.”
Being part of the alliance will help VLI expand its reach, thereby creating greater impact while also connecting Stetson Law’s veteran community with a broader network of potential resources.
“The VLI’s mission is to improve veterans’ circumstances in the Tampa Bay and national community,” said Professor Morgan E. MacIsaac-Bykowski, Associate Director at the VLI. “Partnering with the Raymond James Valor Network is a natural fit, as their mission is nearly identical. We are thrilled to be part of this network, as it allows us to broaden our reach and connect our veteran students and clients with a wider array of organizations dedicated to supporting individuals just like them.”
Aston said the fact that Stetson’s VLI is teaching law students how to navigate the complex VA claims system through pro bono work adds another layer of positive impact.
“Through our Valor partnership with VLI, we hope that providing legal aid pro bono to help veterans can simultaneously work to change policy,” she said. “I think it’s wonderful that VLI also gives students an opportunity to gain legal experience while helping U.S. military veterans. So, while VLI students may not be able to fix the VA, they are certainly doing their part to help those in need navigate the system to get the help they need and deserve.”
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